WASHINGTON, D.C. – Hocking and Perry County communities will receive new resources to update water infrastructure and improve service. U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) announced that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) awarded a grant to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) to construct a new waterline, valves, hydrants, and service reconnections in Falls Gore Township in Hocking County and Coal Township in Perry County. The new system will consist of 9,400 linear feet of new 4-inch HOPE waterline, in addition to new valves, hydrants, and service reconnections. The project is expected to provide new water service for 46 households in Hocking and Perry Counties.

“Ohio’s rural communities and small towns face a heavy burden when financing infrastructure projects,” Brown said. “This improvement project will provide residents and businesses with a modern water system that improves health quality and encourages investment in Falls Gore and Coal Townships.”

The construction project will eliminate a public health threat caused by the current inadequate onsite treatment systems. The current waterlines were not designed for higher pressures and flows that OSWA currently has in the area. In addition, the existing waterline is starting to experience several leaks resulting in boil advisories being issued. In addition to $241,400 in ARC funds, local resources will provide $241,400 in funds, bringing the total project funding to $482,800.

Brown is working to help communities around Ohio struggling to afford costly but necessary renovations to sewer systems. In 2011, he introduced the Clean Water Affordability Act to help communities make renovations to outdated sewer systems, while improving water quality and keeping rates affordable for residents and small business.

###